PhD candidate appointed to peak advisory group

Susana Saffu has been appointed to the Federal Government’s new Children and Family Roundtable peak advisory group

9/12/2011

Charles Darwin University PhD candidate Susana Akua Saffu has been appointed to the Federal Government’s new Children and Family Roundtable peak advisory group.

This appointment draws upon the high esteem Ms Saffu is held. It recognises her expertise and knowledge and also her PhD research, which is an education-focused investigation of African migrant women’s experiences in the Northern Territory.

Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Hon. Jenny Macklin appointed Ms Saffu and commended her expertise:

“We consider that your depth of experience and interest in children and family policy issues will be highly valuable to the success of the Roundtable and will complement the diverse membership group,” Minister Macklin said.

In accepting the appointment Ms Saffu said she was humbled to represent the Australian Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Alliance, an alliance of committed people who worked tirelessly to advocate for the needs of children and families on the Roundtable.

Ms Saffu, also a lecturer with the Batchelor Institute for Indigenous Tertiary Education (BIITE) said she looked forward to sharing her experiences with staff and students.

“I strongly believe that my appointment is a reflection of CDU and BIITE's quality work in education and training, which has contributed immensely to the welfare and wellbeing of children and families,” she said.

The Roundtable is made up of 14 children and family experts and advocates including members from peak bodies, academia, service providers, and representatives of carers, children and young people.